This Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread is a tasty treat! It’s warm, cheesy, and packed with the goodness of squash. Fresh herbs give it a lovely flavor that’s hard to resist.
I love how this bread makes my kitchen smell amazing while it bakes. Plus, it’s a great way to get some veggies in your diet—sneaky, right? 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Squash: I recommend using butternut or acorn squash for their sweet flavor. Canned pumpkin works too if you’re short on time, but fresh squash gives a better texture.
Flour: All-purpose flour is perfect for this bread. If you want it gluten-free, you can try a gluten-free baking mix. Just check if it contains xanthan gum.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to swap it with gouda or Monterey Jack for a different taste. For a lighter option, try reduced-fat cheese.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage elevate this bread. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but use about one-third of the amount as they are more concentrated.
How Can I Ensure My Bread is Moist and Flavorful?
To keep your Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread moist while enhancing flavor, focus on these steps:
- Use the right squash: Make sure to mash it well, so it’s smooth and blends easily. This keeps the bread tender.
- Don’t overmix: Mixing just until combined helps keep the bread light. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
- Let it rest: Allow the bread to cool before slicing. This helps the texture settle and makes it easier to cut.
These simple tips can help you create a delicious loaf that everyone will love!
the Oven and Pan:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This will help the bread release easily after baking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic or onion powder. Make sure everything is well combined to ensure an even rise.
3. Add the Flavors:
Next, stir in the chopped fresh herbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir these together so that they are evenly distributed throughout the flour mixture.
4. Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
In another bowl, beat the eggs. Then add the cooked and mashed squash, vegetable oil (or melted butter), and buttermilk (or yogurt). Mix everything together until it’s well blended.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently stir everything together until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.
6. Bake the Bread:
Once combined, pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve:
After baking, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your freshly baked Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread warm or at room temperature! It’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or as a side for dinner.
Herb and Cheddar Squash Bread
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bread:
- 1 cup cooked and mashed squash (such as butternut or acorn squash)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs, chopped (such as rosemary, thyme, or sage)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or chives
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or melted butter
- 1/2 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and another 50-60 minutes to bake. So, in total, plan for about 1.5 hours to enjoy this delicious bread from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Squash?
Absolutely! Butternut and acorn squash are ideal, but you can also use pumpkin or even zucchini if you’re looking for a different flavor. Just make sure they are cooked and well-mashed for the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to customize this bread by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, or nuts for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the moisture levels; too many additional ingredients may affect baking time.
What Can I Substitute for Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can easily make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1/2 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for about 5 minutes to curdle, and you’ll have a great buttermilk replacement!
